Cinnamon, which originally grew in southern Asia, is an evergreen tree of the laurel family. Cinnamon is from the bark of the tree. It is most often used as a powder and usually as a culinary spice, but it also beneficial to good health.

Cinnamon is a carminative, expelling gas from the stomach and bowel, and is used to aid digestion and also to relieve vomiting. But be careful, too much cinnamon can induce vomiting. Boil a small amount of cinnamon in water and drink (after it has cooled ). Don’t start off with too much cinnamon . . . you don’t know how your body will respond to it. Cinnamon also helps break down fats in the digestive system.

It is also an antiseptic, killing many decay and disease causing bacteria, fungi, and viruses. Cinnamon “flavored” toothpastes and mouthwashes aren’t just for the taste. After washing a minor cut or scrape, try sprinkling some cinnamon powder on it to prevent infection. It also has some anesthetic properties, so it should relieve pain as well.

Warning: Do not put cinnamon oil on the skin because it may cause redness and burning. Also, do not ingest cinnamon oil. It can cause nausea, vomiting, or even kidney damage.